“This is the real thing.”

Can Pope Leo XIV bring unity to a divided Catholic Church? And are we witnessing the beginnings of a genuine Catholic revival?

In this episode of REGINA UNSCRIPTED – IN CONVERSATION, Kathryn Bennett and Mark Lambert are joined by Professor Jacob Phillips, Professor of Systematic Theology at St Mary's University, Twickenham, for a wide-ranging discussion about the future of the Catholic Church, the papacy and the challenges facing Catholics today.

Reflecting on Pope Leo XIV's recent visit to France, Jacob describes the extraordinary sight of tens of thousands of Catholics joining the Holy Father in singing the Salve Regina. For him, it was a powerful reminder of what Catholicism looks like when the Church is united in faith, prayer and devotion.

But what does this moment tell us about the new pontificate? Can Pope Leo bring together Catholics divided over tradition, doctrine and the legacy of Pope Francis? And what might his quieter, more measured approach mean for the future of the Church?

The conversation also explores the signs of renewed interest in Catholicism, particularly among younger generations, and the importance of recovering a confident Catholic identity in an increasingly secular society.

Turning to some of the most difficult moral questions of our time, Jacob reflects on assisted dying, human suffering and the Catholic understanding that life possesses a meaning and order beyond our own choosing.

Throughout the discussion, the theological legacy of Joseph Ratzinger provides an important point of reference as the hosts consider how the Church can remain faithful to its traditions while responding to the modern world.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• Pope Leo XIV's visit to France and the extraordinary scenes of Catholic devotion
• Can Pope Leo XIV unite a divided Church?
• The differences between Pope Leo XIV and Pope Francis
• Why the office of the papacy matters more than personality
• Catholic tradition, orthodoxy and Church unity
• The role of Our Lady and the Salve Regina in Catholic life
• The growing interest in Catholicism among younger generations
• Is a Catholic revival underway?
• The challenge of secularism and modern culture
• Assisted dying, suffering and the dignity of human life
• Finding common ground when discussing difficult moral questions
• Joseph Ratzinger and the development of Catholic theology
• Why the Church must remain faithful to its identity

REGINA UNSCRIPTED – IN CONVERSATION brings together Catholics from different backgrounds for thoughtful, open and genuinely unscripted discussions about faith, culture and the life of the Church.

If you enjoy the conversation, please like, subscribe and share the episode. We'd also love to hear your thoughts in the comments: can Pope Leo XIV bring greater unity to the Catholic Church?

Thank you for watching, and God bless.

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